Read our following article to learn more about the benefits of the Pomodoro Technique For ADHD Students and how to use it effectively.
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management strategy that can be used by students with ADHD to improve focus and productivity. The technique involves breaking down work into 25-minute intervals, with five-minute breaks in between. Research has shown that the Pomodoro Technique is an effective way to manage ADHD symptoms and can help students concentrate better and complete tasks.
Benefits of Pomodoro Technique for ADHD Kids?
1. Method and the ADHD Brain
People with ADHD may notice that your focus time increases as you progress. You can reduce your Pomodoro intervals if you have trouble focusing or have a difficult day. For example, you might set your Pomodoro intervals at 5-10 minute break.
The Pomodoro Method is a great way to accomplish almost anything in 20 minutes. We feel overwhelmed by large tasks and time blocks and feel we can’t do it all. The Pomodoro Method can help you get rid of that anxiety. You can manage your time and productivity in small increments to avoid feeling trapped and enjoy your work without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Modifying your Intervals
The beauty of the Pomodoro Technique’s intervals can be adjusted to your day and your mood. On weekends, for example, I will often do intervals that are based on what television show I am currently watching. I will clean or work for 20 minutes in between episodes. I will find that I have had ample time to relax and have done a lot without stress at the end of each day.
3. Pomodoro can be mixed with other methods
People living with ADHD or their loved ones know there is no way to guarantee your brain stays focused. I find the Pomodoro Method extremely useful, and it allows me to have my best days. It is not always the best option. Depending on my mood, I might use other coping strategies (bullet journaling or alarms, an internet calendar, list-making, etc.) to ensure a productive day.
To determine if the Pomodoro Technique benefits you, you will need to test your moods, energy levels, and successes.
4. Recognizing your Successes
ADHD people spend more time worrying about productivity and getting things done. Even the most neurotypical and organized people can have lousy focus days where they don’t get enough done. You can cut yourself some slack if you have difficulty being productive, regardless of what method you use. Stressing out will only make it harder for you to relax and get work done.
Why Time Blasts Work for ADHD
Time blasts, or timed working intervals, aren’t just fun for increasing productivity. Experts recommend them as a great way to manage ADHD’s time.
Francesco Cirillo was the creator of the Pomodoro method. He wrote that timed intervals could help children with ADD/ADHD write down distractions during a Pomodoro. You can then immediately return to your focused task.
ADDitude magazine has a Pomodoro technique article by an ADHD coach. Another expert suggests setting a timer of 20 minutes or whatever increment is not too intimidating.
It works, but why? Timing is a critical factor in ADHD management. It helps to limit distractions, increase motivation, build determination, and provide quick feedback for children and adults with ADHD. Learning time management skills can also help improve executive function.
This is a great reason to set a timer so you don’t procrastinate on the task you hate. You can also help your child do this. Get ready to Time Blast!
Why shouldn’t I prolong the task time if I am focused?
Even though your brain can process information over a long task, a scientific review has shown that sustained attention can lead to mental fatigue. This can lead to cognitive impairment and an increase in errors.
If it takes you longer to adjust to the task and shift into focus mode, then perhaps extending your task time is better. It might be worth taking a few extra moments to change before you set the timer.
Adhering to the timer is a good idea if you have ADHD. This will help keep hyperfocus away from affecting your ability to complete other tasks.
What should I do if I’m interrupted or need to change gears mid-task?
Sometimes, disruptions can get in the way, even during the designated work hours. One study found that these obstacles can prove challenging to overcome, leading to mistakes in your work.
Do not feel defeated if you are unable to complete your task. Take a moment to regroup, and then get back on track.
Are ADHD Learning Experts suggesting strategies similar to the Pomodoro Technique for ADHD learners?
Yes, almost everywhere.
Reif says time management is an important skill to teach ADHD children because it helps with executive functioning. Reif also recommends that educators set a timer. “Tell your students you have a five-minute break to complete their work and then set the alarm to indicate when it is over.”
Rachel Wise, a school psychologist and behavior specialist, also recommends Timers to teach ADHD. Wise shared her experience with ADHD students over nearly two decades in a post she wrote on January 23, 2016, to support parents’ learning. She explained that timers could assist kids by completing tasks one at a time.
Let’s not forget about the U.S. Department of Education directive that suggested using a clock during the study to help ADHD children manage time.
The Pomodoro Technique: How to Adapt
Parents of children with ADHD may be interested in adapting the Pomodoro Technique to their child’s preferred learning style.
Dr. Thomas-Stagg explained that his students could adjust the time they spend studying. “We find that ADHD students often need to change their study time to suit them. Some students prefer longer work hours. They can hyperfocus and work for 45 to 60 minutes but become easily distracted. He said that some students get more done with smaller time frames.
Rachel Wise teaches that time adjustment is also helpful for younger students. ”…Some children can work longer than others, while others need to work for shorter times. Discuss your concerns with your child/student and work together to determine what time works best.
FAQs
Hello! What’s your background, and what are you working on?
I’m 30 years old, male, from Brazil, studying to enter the diplomatic civil corps. I have been using the Pomodoro technique for many years. It helps A LOT with an extremely severe case of ADHD that I have (been in treatment for 15 years).
How does this technique boost your productivity?
It keeps me motivated not to interrupt the work and to complete the daily goal of “tasks” assigned.
Why are you using this technique?
It’s the same as number 2. Help keep focused and excited to get the goals done. It’s the same as number 2. Help keep focused and excited to get the goals done.
What are your difficulties in using this technique?
Not none. The technique suits me perfectly.
What are you supposed to do in short breaks and long breaks?
I browse the internet, look for news on social networks, and go for a stroll. I browse the internet, look for news on social networks, and go for a stroll.
Photo by javier trueba on Unsplash
